11 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Kinshicho: Your Guide to Enjoying the Area

Once known as a "downtown pleasure quarter" and a city for adults, Kinshicho has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, it's a family-friendly neighborhood brimming with children's play areas, natural spots, and shopping districts. The area is also a haven for those seeking trendy cafes and shops that appeal to a younger female demographic. With a recent surge in apartment buildings and nurseries, Kinshicho is evolving from a "playful city" into a desirable place to live. Moreover, Tokyo's iconic Skytree is a mere 15-minute walk away. Despite these modern developments, the city still preserves many traditional downtown alleyways, offering a glimpse into its nostalgic past. This article will highlight 11 must-visit destinations in Kinshicho.

1. Kinshi Park

Kinshi Park, a municipal park, opened in 1928. This park, located in Sumida Ward, which suffered devastating damage during the Great Tokyo Air Raid, has a sad history of being used as a temporary burial site for victims. After undergoing extensive renovations, Kinshi Park has been reborn as a new tourist attraction in Kinshi-cho. You can even see Tokyo Skytree from between the lawn square and the fountain.

With approximately 120 Somei Yoshino cherry trees planted, Kinshi Park is also known as a famous cherry blossom spot, attracting many tourists from both Japan and abroad during the cherry blossom season. The "Sumida Matsuri," the largest event in Sumida Ward, is held here at Kinshi Park every autumn. In addition, there are plenty of fun events such as jazz festivals and flea markets. Please be sure to visit Kinshi Park, an oasis in Kinshi-cho.

2. Olinas Kinshicho

Opened in 2006, Olinas Kinshicho has become a staple for shopping in Kinshicho. Catering to a wide range of ages and needs, the complex houses a cinema, restaurants, clinics, an electronics store, and much more. With a playroom at Yamada Denki on the second floor of the Core building, a family cafe on the B1 floor, and a game center in the main building, Olinas is a family-friendly destination. The complex also provides diaper-changing stations and nursing rooms, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for parents and young children.

Olinas is not just for families. Couples and students will also find plenty to enjoy, with an 8-screen cinema offering a relaxed atmosphere, CD shops, cafes, and other youth-oriented stores. The addition of Nitori in July 2016 has further enhanced the complex's appeal. Moreover, Olinas Kinshicho is conveniently located within walking distance of Tokyo Skytree, making it easily accessible.

3. Sumida Edo Kiriko Museum

The history of Edo Kiriko, a traditional Tokyo craft, dates back to around 1834 during the late Edo period. This technique was handed down from artisan to artisan primarily in the downtown areas of Koto and Sumida Wards. Although many workshops were devastated during World War II, the surviving artisans successfully revived this art.

The Sumida Edo Kiriko Museum, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kinshicho, offers visitors the opportunity to experience Edo Kiriko firsthand. Given its popularity, especially among foreign tourists and school groups from other regions, prior reservations are essential. The museum also sells collaboration products with Tokyo Skytree and exclusive items available only at the Sumida Edo Kiriko Museum.

4. Nose Myokendo Temple

Nose Myokendo Temple is the only branch temple of Nose Myoken-san, located in Toyono-gun, Osaka Prefecture. The area around Kinshicho is known as a place related to Kaishu Katsu, and Nose Myokendo Temple is no exception. It is known as the place where Koichi Katsu, Kaishu's father, performed Mizugori (a purification ritual by standing in water) to pray for the healing of his son Kaishu (who was 9 years old at the time) and his future success after he was bitten by a dog in a vital part and was near death.
This Mizugori ritual is now held annually in February as the "Suigyoku Koto-e," a prayer for the peace and security of the nation, and has become a major event that attracts many tourists. Nose Myokendo Temple is also famous for being visited by Ryoma Sakamoto and his fiancée, Sana. History buffs should definitely visit this place.

5. Koto-ji Temple

Nestled quietly in the bustling district of Kinshicho, "Koto-ji Temple" was founded in 1940 as a branch temple of "Gokoku-zan Suizawa Kannon" in Ikaho-machi, Gunma Prefecture. The principal image is Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon), and the temple grounds, though small in scale, offer numerous attractions such as the Benzaiten of Success, Mizuara Kannon, and a war memorial.
Given the proximity of JRA Wins Kinshicho, many people visit to pray before horse races. Locally, it is affectionately known as the "Kannon of Kinshicho." Koto-ji Temple is conveniently located a 5-minute walk from the south exit of Kinshicho Station. With many restaurants nearby, it is also a recommended destination after visiting the Tokyo Skytree.

6. Sumida Ward General Gymnasium

The Sumida Ward General Gymnasium underwent a major renovation in 2010 and reopened as a state-of-the-art sports complex. It offers a wide range of programs, including swimming, dance, ball sports, and studio classes, that are very popular with local children. Additionally, it provides yoga, gym sessions, and other activities suitable for all ages, making it a great place for people of all generations to enjoy. The best part is that it's open to non-residents as well.

Group bookings can be made in advance, so why not enjoy a game of futsal or badminton while you're sightseeing? The gymnasium also features an area dedicated to the legendary baseball player and local hero, Sadaharu Oh, making it a must-visit for baseball fans.

7. Rakutenchi Spa

For nearly 80 years, "Rakutenchi" has been a popular entertainment complex in Kinshicho. Located on the 9th floor of the Rakutenchi building is the men's-only "Rakutenchi Spa," featuring natural hot springs. The spa's sauna is particularly popular, with many visitors coming specifically for the "ロウリュ" (a sauna ritual involving pouring water over hot stones) which is held 15 times a day. It's a common spot for salarymen to unwind after work.

As the spa is exclusively for men, women are prohibited from entering. Unfortunately, children under elementary school age are also not allowed. The Rakutenchi building itself offers a variety of other facilities, including a movie theater, an esthetic salon, a game center, and restaurants, making it a great place for couples or friends to enjoy some separate time.

8. T-WALL Climbing Gym

T-WALL Climbing Gym is a new type of indoor facility where you can experience the popular sport of bouldering. With free lessons available, even beginners and children can feel at ease. Why not give bouldering a try while you're sightseeing? The gym offers walls of varying difficulty, from vertical to steep, and you can also experience roped climbing.

Recently, office workers have been visiting to relieve stress from lack of exercise, and senior citizens who enjoy mountain climbing have been using the gym to build their strength. Among the Tokyo locations, the Kinkōchō branch is particularly convenient for tourists as it has an attached shop selling climbing gear.

9. Kinšitōri Park

Are you familiar with the urban legend of "Oitekebori"? It's a spooky tale about a person who, while returning home from fishing, heard a voice from the moat crying out, "Oiteke!" (Leave me behind!). Scared, they ran away, only to find that all the fish they had caught had mysteriously disappeared. It's a classic scary story that most people have heard at least once in their childhood.

The place where this "Oitekebori" legend took place was the former "Kinšitōri Moat". According to local folklore, there have been kappa (a type of water spirit) in this area for a long time. Some believe that the voice crying out "Oiteke!" belonged to a kappa, but the truth remains a mystery. It's still recounted today as one of the "Seven Mysteries of Honjo".
Kinšitōri Moat has since been filled in, and the area is now known as "Kinšitōri Park", beloved by local children and tourists alike. At the entrance of the park, a cute kappa statue, the symbol of Kinšitōri Park, greets visitors warmly. The park also has playground equipment, making it a popular spot for children to play.

10. Ewatari

A large, eye-catching sign advertising the famous Umaibo character greets visitors as they exit the north exit of Kinkōcho Station. This store is a well-known wholesale candy shop, famous for its nostalgic Japanese snacks. Offering internet sales, Ewatari allows customers of all ages to experience the thrill of buying candy in bulk, just like in childhood.

Kinkōcho was once a bustling district renowned for its wholesale candy shops in Tokyo. While many of these shops have closed due to changing times, some, like "Misaki," which only sells in bulk, and "Yao Kin," the manufacturer of Umaibo, continue to operate. Exploring the old-fashioned charm of Kinkōcho and visiting these remaining wholesale candy shops is a delightful experience.

11. PEIKKO

Located just a minute's walk from Kinshicho Station's north exit, "PEIKKO" is the official Moomin shop that has captured the hearts of Japanese fans. This iconic spot offers an immersive experience into the world of Moomin, making it a must-visit for tourists, especially when combined with a trip to the nearby Moomin Cafe in Tokyo Skytree.

Even if you're not a die-hard Moomin fan, you'll appreciate the shop's Scandinavian-inspired interior. With a goal to offer the world's largest selection of Moomin merchandise, PEIKKO boasts over 1,000 unique items. From goods directly imported from Finland to exclusive PEIKKO merchandise, there's something for everyone.

◎Summary

Discover the hidden gem of Tokyo: Kinshicho. This eclectic neighborhood offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. From traditional markets to trendy cafes, there's always something new to explore. And with its convenient location near Tokyo Skytree, it's the perfect place to experience the best of both worlds. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Kinshicho is sure to captivate your senses.

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